A Classic Swatch Watch Is Coming Back

The legendary watchmakers over at Swatch are known for a few things: their red-and-white Swiss flag logo, a “keep it simple” approach to design, and the fact that they make trustworthy timepieces at affordable prices. However, there is one particular Swatch that ignites a frenzy of excitement similar to that of a hyped-up sneaker: the X-Rated watch. Originally released back in 1987, the “X”-branded timepiece has become one of the most famous Swatches of all time—and it’s finally coming back as part of the brand’s forthcoming Spring-Summer 2018 collection.

The reissue hasn’t changed much from the original, either. It’s still a simple-looking watch: one-color strap, minimal hour and minute hands, a relatively plain dial with no markings except for minor Swatch branding—oh, and that huge “X.” And for straight-edge kids from the hardcore punk scene, that relatively unassuming “X” propels the watch from ordinary to highly coveted. (Straight edge—a movement that started in the early ‘80s in which one abstains from alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes—is commonly signified by an “X.”) Over the years, the status of the X-Rated watch as statement fashion grew as it made cameos in iconic concert photos and on beloved album covers. Eventually, though, the watch found a larger audience in skaters, minimalists, graphic designers, and creative types alike—basically anyone with an appreciation for simple design.

And then Swatch stopped making the watch. Fans had to rely on bootleg copies from business-savvy record labels or merch companies—unless they wanted to shell out $500 to cop an original on eBay. So the fact that anyone will soon be able to buy the legit version from Swatch is a bona fide big deal. The OG black-and-white is perhaps the most iconic model (a.k.a., the one that everyone wants), but it comes in bold purple and cherry red options, too. Swatch is also selling a new, slightly more upscale model, the X-District, which is available in tonal black and dark green colorways.

And even if you don't have deep roots in the hardcore punk community, this is a pretty compelling piece. Musical preferences aside, it’s a bold yet simple watch that is suited for everyday wear and will pair nicely with most outfits. (Black-and-white goes with pretty much everything.) It’s not quite as flashy as something gold, and it probably won’t steal attention from whatever else you’re wearing—but if you’re looking for a versatile watch with a bit of an edge, then, well, "X" marks the watch.